EDD Money Network card arrived instead of paper check - can I still use this for my first payment?

This happens all the time! EDD defaults to the Money Network card even if you request paper checks. The good news is you can absolutely use the card - it already has your funds loaded on it. Just activate it, set a PIN, and you can withdraw cash at ATMs or use it like a regular debit card. In fact, the card is usually faster than waiting for paper checks to arrive in the mail for future payments.

Same thing happened 2 me last month! i activated the card & been using it no prob. just watch out for ATM fees at some places

The Money Network card is actually much more convenient than paper checks. Here's what you should know: 1. You can transfer funds from the card to your personal bank account for free through the Money Network app or website 2. Bank of America ATMs are free to use with this card 3. You can set up account alerts to know when payments are deposited 4. Future benefit payments will automatically load onto this same card If you still want paper checks after trying the card, you can call EDD to change your preference for future payments, but honestly, most people end up preferring the card.

I HATE THE STUPID CARD SYSTEM!!! I requested paper checks THREE TIMES and they kept sending me that dumb card anyway. Then when I finally got a check, it took 7 days longer to arrive than the card payments used to take. EDD just does whatever they want regardless of what you ask for!!! 😡😡😡

If you're still having trouble getting through to EDD about changing your payment preference (though I agree with others that the card is actually better), you might want to try Claimyr. It helped me get through to an EDD rep when I couldn't get through for days. Their site is claimyr.com and you can see how it works in this video: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km. It was worth it to finally talk to someone instead of hitting redial for hours.

I had this exact situation back in February. My first payment came on the Money Network card even though I asked for checks. I just went ahead and used the card and it was fine. I actually like it better than waiting for checks now. You can even check your balance by texting - super convenient.

wait does anyone know if u have to pay taxes on unemployment benefits? i just got my card 2 weeks ago and been spending it but now im worried

UPDATE: I activated the card and was able to use it right away! Also discovered I could transfer the money directly to my checking account through the Money Network app. Thanks everyone for the advice - this worked out much better than paper checks would have!